Markelle Fultz Joins Kings: Former No. 1 Pick Signs New Deal

The Sacramento Kings have found their new point guard. Markelle Fultz, the former No. 1 overall pick, has agreed to a deal with the team, according to his agent and attorney, Raymond Brothers of I AM Sports & Entertainment. The move comes after the Kings traded away De’Aaron Fox at the deadline, leaving a hole in their backcourt.

Fultz, now 26, was highly sought after by multiple teams in recent months, but after narrowing down his options, he chose Sacramento. His agent confirmed that he’s fully healthy and ready to play—something Kings fans will be excited to hear.

A Fresh Start for Fultz

Fultz’s career has been anything but smooth. Drafted first overall in 2017 by the Philadelphia 76ers, he entered the league with sky-high expectations. However, a mysterious shoulder injury—later diagnosed as thoracic outlet syndrome—derailed his early years. His shot mechanics fell apart, and his confidence seemed shaken. After struggling to find his rhythm in Philly, he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2019.

In Orlando, Fultz showed glimpses of the player many expected him to be. During the 2022-23 season, he posted career highs in points (13.9), assists (5.7), rebounds (3.9), and minutes played (29.6). He was playing smart, attacking the basket well, and showing off the playmaking skills that made him a top pick in the first place.

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But then, the injury bug struck again. Last season, he was limited to just 43 games due to various setbacks, and Orlando ultimately decided to move on. After spending the offseason rehabbing, Fultz generated interest from several teams but took his time making a decision.

Now, he’s ready to prove himself again—this time in Sacramento.

Source: Kings agree to deal with former No. 1 pick Markelle Fultz

What This Means for the Kings

The Kings have been in search of a new floor general since shipping out Fox at the trade deadline. Since then, Malik Monk has stepped in as the primary ball-handler, and while he’s done a solid job, Sacramento needed another true point guard to help run the offense.

Fultz brings exactly that. He’s a skilled passer, an aggressive driver, and—when healthy—an impactful defender. His ability to push the pace and create for teammates should fit well in Sacramento’s system.

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This move also comes at an interesting time for the Kings. After parting ways with head coach Mike Brown, they’ve been on a roll, winning three straight and going 15-8 since Doug Christie took over as interim head coach. The team is in the middle of a competitive Western Conference playoff race, and adding Fultz could give them an extra boost.

Markelle Fultz Joins Kings: Former No. 1 Pick Signs New Deal

A Make-or-Break Opportunity

For Fultz, this is another chance to show the NBA what he’s capable of. Injuries have robbed him of consistency, but when he’s been on the floor, he’s proven he can contribute at a high level.

Now in Sacramento, he’ll have a chance to prove he still belongs among the league’s best young guards. If he stays healthy and finds his rhythm, he could be a key piece for the Kings as they make their playoff push.

One thing’s for sure—this is a fresh start for both Fultz and the Kings, and it’ll be exciting to see how it plays out.